News

An operator whose licence bid was adjourned because he could not meet compliance standards has succeeded in obtaining an interim licence for six months.

At his last application, Widnes-based Ronald Martindale, trading as Zebra Skips, had sought a new one-vehicle restricted licence before the North-Western Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell. She had adjourned the hearing and advised him to take advice because his application had little prospect of success

Last September, a vehicle  being operated illegally by Martindale was impounded. He applied for the return of the vehicle on the grounds that he was unaware that it was being operated illegally. However, the TC refused to return the vehicle because she was satisfied that Martindale knew he needed an O-licence.

When the licence application first came before the TC, she was not satisfied Martindale was getting anywhere need the required standard.

When the case reappeared, Martindale said he had taken legal advice and now realised he must convince the TC he could operate legally..

Detailing the systems he was putting in place, Martindale said the vehicle would have a full service and safety inspection before going on the road if a licence was granted.

Granting the interim licence, the TC said that Martindale had really done his homework and she was in effect putting him on probation. During the six months VOSA would be asked to undertake a full maintenance investigation and tachograph  check.

The TC was prepared to offer a chance

The TC was just satisfied that Martindale could be given an opportunity to show he could comply with the law.